This is a tremendous improvement over conventional antennae that rely on a complex mechanical system, called a gimbal, that is used to maintain the connection between the user and the satellite network. Active Electronically Steered Array (AESA) AntennaeĪn AESA antenna uses RF technology to point a beam of radio waves in different directions without moving the antenna.Two technologies are critical to making low orbit satellite internet possible: This network of linked LEO satellites enables global coverage. The relatively low orbit of an LEO satellite reduces its coverage area, so multiple satellites are required to bring internet connectivity to a region. As a result, LEO-based networks are generally less costly than options that require satellites with higher orbits. This means users can more reliably count on sending and receiving critical information.Ĭompared to Medium or High Earth Orbit options, LEO satellites require less energy to be put into orbit and rely on less powerful amplifiers for transmission to and from Earth. Unlike a physical connection that can be severed or a cell tower that can be overwhelmed or disabled, a satellite connection is typically more difficult to disrupt. LEO satellites allow for two-way communication in real time. Therefore, the closer you are to the satellite, the shorter the delay between signal and response. Latency refers to the time it takes for a signal to be sent and returned. LEO is defined as fewer than 500 miles from the surface of the earth, though most LEO satellites are positioned approximately 250 miles above the earth. There are three key advantages to using satellites that are closer to the earth’s surface: LEO satellites provide the best solution for connecting remote, hostile or rural areas to the internet when traditional terrestrial or cell-based internet connections aren’t an option. For example, when watching a streaming television service, it’s tolerable to wait a few seconds for a video to buffer before you get a constant signal. As a result, these types of satellites are best suited to one-way transmission such as sending television or radio signals or delivering streaming services. However, the lag time (latency) increases the farther the satellite is from Earth. Satellites with Medium Earth Orbits (1,243 to 22,236 miles above sea level) and High Earth Orbits (more than 22,236 miles above sea level) are used to deliver information, services and content. For example, you’re at a crowded football game with a full-strength signal, but you can’t make a phone call or connect to the internet because thousands of people in the area are trying to connect at the same time. Your phone is connected to a cell tower using a radio frequency (RF) signal, which degrades over distance and can be overwhelmed by heavy traffic. Terrestrial systems are also vulnerable to disruption. Simply cut the cable and the connection is lost.Ĭell phones provide a relatively reliable internet connection. Wired connections require a significant investment in materials and internet infrastructure that might not be an option for developing countries, hostile environments or areas separated by treacherous terrain. That wire is physically connected to a vast network of cables that link back to the internet service provider and ultimately to the internet. Today, most people access the internet via a coaxial cable or fiber-optic line that connects directly to a modem/wireless router in their home or office. Today, users can connect to the internet in the following ways:
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